Job Description

The Curatorial Research Assistant will work closely with the Curatorial Unit at ACM-TPM to develop and prepare a medium-scale exhibition that will feature a collection of Japanese fukusa from the late Edo to Meiji period (mid-19thto early 20th century). Scheduled to open in April 2024, the exhibition will explore the tradition of gifting in Japan, as well as Japanese culture, folklore, and religion.

The primary responsibilities of the Curatorial Research Assistant will include conducting independent research, developing exhibition ideas, formulating the exhibition\'s narrative, and supporting administrative tasks related to other curatorial affairs.

The following are the range of duties expected to be undertaken:

(A) Research

• Conduct thorough research with primary and secondary sources (preferably including Japanese sources) about Japanese culture related to fukusa and the gift-giving traditions in Japan.
• Assist in editing transcripts, preparing bibliographies, captions, photograph orderings, and footnotes related to the exhibition and the accompanying publication(s).

(B) Exhibitions, publications and media

• Develop innovative exhibition ideas and conceptualize the curatorial narrative for the exhibition.
• Collaborate with the Curatorial Team to develop the exhibition\'s presentation and design.
• Prepare text panels and oversee the production of multimedia materials (such as videos, soundtracks, or digital initiatives) for the exhibition, if applicable.
• Support administrative tasks related to the exhibition, including compiling artifact lists, archiving photographs, and filing relevant documentation.
• Assist in organizing lecture programs and educational activities associated with the exhibition.
• Contribute to the publication process, from conceptualization and research to writing and printing.

(C) Any other duties related to the exhibition as assigned by the management

Requirements:

• Keen interest (preferably with research experience) in Japanese history and culture.
• Excellent organisational, project management, and communication skills, particularly in conducting interviews.
• Ability to conduct independent research with primary and secondary sources.
• Strong analytical, writing, and research skills in English.
• Working knowledge with the Japanese language is ideal.
• Minimum undergraduate degree in art history, history, anthropology, museum/curatorial studies, Japanese studies, or a related subject.
• This is a temporary research position for a period of 12 months, beginning August/September 2023.

Salary and Benefits:

• Monthly salary is between $2,500-$3,200 depending on experience and qualifications

Location: City Hall / Raffles Place

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